NRCS announces 2019 Illinois Seminars Scheduled
Two HOT speakers will discuss Soil Health solutions!

[October 23, 2018]     Using cover crops and improving soil health remain hot topics in 2018 and the trend is not fading. In fact, the go-getters have already seeded their cover crops. What’s stopping you? If you still need more information, start making plans now to attend a 2019 Conservation Cropping Seminar event.

Upcoming events include two powerful speakers you do not want to miss. Soil sustainability author David Montgomery and Soil Health rock star Ray Archuletta will wow crowds with information and demonstrations.

Three new events are planned for January 2019, offering access to valuable information for farmers ready to make important and profitable changes on their ground. According to State Conservationist Ivan Dozier, “These healthy soil power houses will surely have an impact on many Illinois farmers who are still sitting on the fence when it comes to cover crops. If you want proof, don’t miss this. It could be a game-changer.” Register to attend any seminar—January 22nd in Mendota, January 23rd in Springfield, or January 24th in O’Fallon, Illinois at www.ccswcd.com.

Two keynote speakers for the 2019 event are David Montgomery, author of “A Growing Revolution—Bringing Our Soil Back To Life,” and the energetic and inspirational retired NRCS agronomist and spokesman for USDA-NRCS’s Unlock the Secrets of the Soil campaign, Ray Archuletta.

Montgomery combines ancient wisdom and modern science for a powerful look at agriculture changes we face today. Archuletta shares evidence, enthusiasm, and more as he tells the story of soil biology and the miracle below our feet. Each event will feature both Montgomery and Archuletta as well as research, and local farmer testimonials and discussions where you can ask the questions you need answers to.

Each seminar costs $20, payable by check or credit card, and it includes lunch. All 2019 events start early and end before 4 pm, with time to meet and visit speakers, sponsors, or chat with others in an informal networking atmosphere.

Illinois farmers are growing more interested in taking steps to increase conservation on their land. “We still have a long way to go with making cover crops and healthy soil a top priority. And our water quality goals are another challenge, but I believe Illinois farmers are ready to step up,” Dozier adds.

January 22, 2019 – Mendota Civic Center– 1901 Tom Merwin Dr. in Mendota, IL – Contact: Joe [phone]

January 23, 2019 – The Crowne Plaza – 3000 S. Dirksen Pkwy. in Springfield, IL – Contact: Marty [phone]

January 24, 2019 – Regency Hotel – 400 Regency Park in O’Fallon, IL – Contact: Gary [phone]

These events offer producers an opportunity to gather facts and make decisions that fit their own operation. To learn more and to register, visit the Champaign County Soil and Water Conservation District website www.ccswcd.com. Local businesses and organizations can exhibit, serve as sponsors, and reach local and new clients. See website for details. Primary sponsors and organizers include Illinois Department of Agriculture, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, American Farmland Trust, the Illinois Stewardship Alliance, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, and local Soil and Water Conservation Districts.

[Paige Buck
Public Affairs Officer
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service]